How to automatically reverse a locomotive on a straight section of track

[Anonymous]

I’m looking for a way to automatically reverse a locomotive on a straight section of track. I would like to a build a shelf layout, but would like a locomotive to be able to continuously run back and forth for purposes of testing, burning in, etc. on the main line.

Is there an easy way to do this electronically? I’m considering rigging up DPDT switches mechanically – possibly creating a short block with a resistor to make a “slow down” section, then have the locomotive (or maybe an attached special car) mechanically throw a switch - possibly a switch I'll make myself.

Any other tips out there?

[Jetrock]

There are electronic modules you can buy that do exactly this--I think most of them have some sort of electric eye to spot when the train hits the reversing point. They're pretty economical (maybe $40) and all you have to do is hook up the connections. Try the Walthers catalog in the electronics section...

[ndbprr]

Circuitron had a device like that and I've seen ads for others mostly used for trolley lines to add some motion other than trains.

[Javern]

build it yourself, some sort of reed switch, ir detector, etc to reverse the track polarity. I've picked up some cheapo house alarm ir sensors at radio shack before

[Anonymous]

I just did this... I have an 8 in board above my window it is 10 foot long. I have a "Y" configuration. One of the legs is full of "S" turns one left... one right.. one left... one right... and so on....... the other leg is straight and goes up a slight grade. I had the Circulon system... it worked on a light sensors... I was not happy with the performance of this system and wanted something that was more reliable. I picked up some electronics from Dallee.com that WORKS GREAT!! I couldn't be happyier. Everything is automatic... it goes to end of one leg and has a timed delay and then auto reverses to the begining where it has another timed delay and will auto switch the track and then go to the 2nd stop with another timed delay... works with no problems...